A Blackfeet Nation man is facing homicide charges for a fatal stabbing on the Flathead Reservation in Montana.

Police officers from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes responded to a party early Saturday morning when they were informed of the stabbing. John Pierre Jr., 26, was pronounced dead after being taken to a nearby hospital.

Authorities say Makueeyapee Whitford, 32, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, is responsible for the crime. He denied being at the party but police found evidence and witnesses to connect him to the scene.

The incident occurred in Polson, within the boundaries of the Flathead Reservation. But the state has jurisdiction so Whitford is being charged in state court.

Get the Story:
Bail set at $1M for suspect in fatal Polson stabbing (The Missoulian 3/19)
Court document reveals details about alleged Polson murder (NBC Montana 3/18)